Mortgage broking firm The Loans Café is claiming a Western Australian first after installing Internet terminals linked to all major financial institutions across the country.
The Loans Café, which has outlets in Perth and Fremantle, has partnered with BankWest to provide the new service.
BankWest said it supported the initiative to provide customers with easy access to its services.
As well as BankWest’s own web site, customers can access more than 30 other lenders, including all of the major banks plus building societies, credit unions and other lenders.
Managing director Anne-Marie Syme said the initiative marked the fourth year of business for The Loans Café, a working cafe and mortgage broker.
“This is the first time that web terminals of this kind will be available in a working cafe in Perth,” she said.
Ms Syme added that many people wanted to use Internet banking services but did not have Internet access at their place of work or their home.
While most financial institutions have Internet terminals in their branches, they do not offer access to competitors’ web sites.
An alternative option is Internet cafes, but they can pose security risks for people conducting Internet banking transactions.
“Retail web terminals are coin operated, but ours are completely free of charge,” Ms Syme said.
“Current interest rates and other product information can also be obtained and printed free of charge.”
